Lack of civility has recently reached epidemic proportions in the world. The Franciscan Action Network has recently developed a F.R.A.N.C.I.S. Commitment to Civility in Discourse. The 7 promises you take spell out the name Francis. Take a minute and promise to work towards a greater degree of civility in discourse.
"I commit to:
FACILITATE a forum for difficult discourse and acknowledge that all dialogue can lead to new insight and mutual understanding.
RESPECT the dignity of all people, especially the dignity of those who hold an opposing view.
AUDIT one's self and utilize terms or a vocabulary of faith to unite or reconcile rather than divide conflicting positions.
NEUTRALIZE inflamed conversations by presuming that those with whom we differ are acting in good faith.
COLLABORATE with others and recognize that all human engagement is an opportunity to promote peace.
IDENTIFY common ground such as similar values or concerns and utilize this as a foundation to build upon.
SUPPORT efforts to clean up the provocative language by calling policymakers to their sense of personal integrity."
Look around the Franciscan Action Network website. They are committed to a consistent ethic of life for all and stewardship for God's earth. They promote peace, both individually and globally, and economic justice.
a wonderful iniatiative,I was watching Civilisatio on the BBC and Kenneth Clark pointed out how St Francis was a man of perfect manners who was in fact the perfection of courtly love,humble obediant and devoted to doing acts of love.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that about St. Francis. Makes this even more appropriate. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThis is a fantastic idea. I am glad to see such things spreading over the Internet!
ReplyDeleteMe too!!
ReplyDeleteWow...yet another mention of St. Francis...I have been thinking of him quite often lately...found you from The Catholic Carnival. That's a fabulous iniative.
ReplyDeleteIt really is a very necessary initiative. I hope it spreads.
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